3 things we learned from Sixers' 105-87 opening-night loss

3 things we learned from Sixers' 105-87 opening-night loss

After suffering a disappointing end to their incredible playoff run in Boston last year, the new season didn’t begin as hoped for the Philadelphia 76ers. Returning to TD Garden to kick off the 2018 NBA season Tuesday night, the Sixers fell to the Celtics 105-87.

While Philly has incredibly high expectations entering the year, the Celtics are clearly still the team to beat. Here’s how they can move on from a tough opening loss.

Transition brings out the best, the worst

The Sixers are a fun team with plenty of young legs to run the floor. Scoring 14 points off turnovers, the open space gave plenty of room to the more range adverse Ben Simmons. Additionally, Joel Embiid triggered several big transition plays with vicious stands on defense.

Unfortunately, the Sixers speed only seems to run one way. They had 16 turnovers, which resulted in 11 points for the Celtics. They looked sluggish at times getting back on defense, allowing Boston free range to wreak havoc on the offensive end.

Markelle Fultz still needs time

Fultz struggled in the opener, tallying just five points (2-7 shooting), three rebounds and two assists.

The young guard looked a little timid at times. At the end of the third, Fultz passed on a transition dunk, dumping it off to an unaware T.J. McConnell which led to a turnover. This is just one play but encapsulates the sophomore guard’s struggles.

Granted this game was his first NBA start, in hostile territory no less, but if Fultz is the season-long starting option over JJ Redick, he has to step up.

Ben Simmons continues to amaze

Even after coming off his Rookie of the Year campaign, NBA general managers tapped Simmons as a candidate primed for a breakout season. Tonight, he justified their already high expectations. Finishing with a smooth double-double headlined by a stat line of 19 points, 15 rebounds and eight assists, Simmons was the highlight of the Sixers’ outing.

Outside of his incredible transition points, the 22-year-old had a pair of highlight-reel passes that showcased his incredible basketball IQ. A no-look pass to Markelle Fultz and a between-the-legs dish to Embiid for a monster dunk served as a fantastic preview for the season which Sixers fans are clamoring for.